Bòrd na Gàidhlig have launched their major new information and networking site, mygaelic.com, which aims to be the place to visit for everyone who wants to learn more about Gaelic – Gaelic language and culture, tourism, events relating to Gaelic and, how and where they can engage with the language.
mygaelic.com is aimed at Gaelic speakers and novices alike, offering something for everyone with an interest in wishing to learn more about the language or indeed learning to speak Gaelic.

Chairman of the Comataidh Buileachaidh Plana Canain, Agnes Rennie of Ness welcomed the new initiative, stating: "It is good to see that Bòrd na Gàidhlig are promoting the language through modern technology in order to make Gaelic accessible to all, whether in Scotland or overseas."
She was sure that the new website would be a regular port of call for Gaelic speakers and learners alike.

"This portal leads those with an interest in Gaelic into a Gaelic storehouse with information about the language itself, genealogy, tourism, music, events in the Gaelic world and opportunities to learn Gaelic. There is something here for everyone with an interest in Gaelic from young to old, from fluent speakers to learners and supporters of the language."

Minister for Europe, External Affairs and Culture Linda Fabiani – who launched the new site in Glasgow - said: "Gaelic is an essential element of Scotland's heritage and current cultural life. It is vital for the future of Gaelic that we continue to develop the wide range of opportunities that now exist for the use and learning of the language.

"mygaelic.com is a great example of how Gaelic can be made more accessible to all, and of course use of this technology will appeal particularly to the younger Gaelic speakers who are key to a secure and sustainable future for the language. Launch of the portal is an important step forward and I am confident that mygaelic.com will, alongside many other initiatives, help to strengthen and secure the position of Gaelic in Scotland."

Bòrd na Gàidhlig's Acting Chief Executive Rosemary Ward said: "mygaelic.com has something for everyone with an interest in Gaelic. It is intended to be a "one-stop shop" for those who have an interest in Gaelic or learning the language. Core elements include information on a wide range of Gaelic activities and organisations, interactive tools for adding and finding friends, sending messages, and taking part in discussions.

"One of the key aims of mygaelic.com is to offer learners of the language the opportunity to take themselves through basic lessons and to be a source of information on where they can get help and support to expand their knowledge of Gaelic. Site content has been created in three different language levels to engage with non-Gaelic speakers, learners and those who are fluent in Gaelic. Users can submit content which can be rated by everyone who views the site. More fluent speakers are encouraged to participate in advanced group forums, and to become moderators willing to give a friendly hand to beginners when they seek support and encouragement."

For more on this feature see this week's Stornoway Gazette, out Thursday, February 12.